General Sessions Court is an independent "judicial office". By
Tennessee constitution, the General Sessions Judges are elected by
county-wide vote to eight (8) year terms. Tennessee Code Annotated
Section 16-15-501 vests the court with all the jurisdiction and shall
exercise the authority formerly conferred by law upon justices of the
peace in all civil and criminal cases, suits and actions. The
jurisdiction, power and authority of the court shall be coextensive with
the county. In addition, the courts are vested with jurisdiction over
probate, county court and juvenile matters. Judicial Commissioners issue
criminal process and warrants as set forth by T.C.A. 40-1-111 and
T.C.A. 40-5-102, with all the powers enumerated therein.